In a recent article published on Ask a Manager, a reader shares a hilariously chaotic experience they had during a video interview. As a mom to a sick toddler and a dog who decided to vomit at the worst possible time, the reader found themselves juggling interruptions and distractions while trying to present their best self to the interviewers. Despite feeling frazzled and overwhelmed, they are uncertain about how their circumstances may have been perceived by the interviewers. Should they send a follow-up email to explain their situation? Or should they simply hope that their qualifications and answers to the interview questions will overshadow the craziness that unfolded during the call? Find out more about this relatable and humorous experience and discover some advice on how to handle unexpected disruptions during interviews.
Dealing with a Sick Toddler and Vomiting Dog During a Video Interview
Unfortunate Circumstances Leading to the Interview
As a dedicated parent and professional, you found yourself facing a challenging situation when you had to deal with a sick toddler and a vomiting dog during a video interview. The circumstances leading up to this interview were far from ideal. You were actively seeking a part-time role due to the difficulties of working during a pandemic with a young child. In March of last year, you started a new job with a company that you really liked. Recently, you came across new opportunities for growth within the company and decided to apply for a new position. It seemed like a very good opportunity and you were more than qualified for the work. As expected, you received an interview invitation.
However, the interview was scheduled on a particularly challenging day for you. The night before the interview, you had to deal with a sick toddler and only managed to get about two hours of sleep. Due to your child’s illness, they were unable to attend daycare that day and you were not able to find backup childcare. Despite the lack of sleep and the unexpected absence of childcare, you made the decision to proceed with the interview. It didn’t occur to you at the time to reschedule because you were accustomed to powering through these types of situations.
Challenges Faced During the Interview
The interview was conducted via Zoom on your day off at home. You attempted to put your toddler to sleep before the interview, but they woke up at the last possible second. Throughout the interview, your child interrupted several times, and although you managed to redirect them, it was less than ideal. To add to the chaos, your terrier repeatedly vomited and ate it in front of you, causing further distractions. While trying to answer interview questions and keep your child calm and away from the sick dog, you couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed and slightly helpless. The situation left you feeling frazzled, especially considering your lack of sleep and the challenging environment.
Concerns About the Work Environment
Understandably, you are worried about the way the interviewers might perceive the chaos and disruptions in your work environment. With this position being a work-from-home role, you are concerned that they may judge you based on what they experienced during the interview. The potential negative perception of the circumstances could impact their impression of your professionalism and suitability for the role. It’s natural to question how this unusual interview situation might affect your chances.
Strategies for Follow-up Communication
In situations like these, it’s important to consider sending a follow-up email to the interviewers. This email can serve as an opportunity to address the unusual circumstances and express your confidence in your fit for the role. However, it is crucial to strike a balance and avoid sounding like you are making excuses. Instead, focus on acknowledging the atypical nature of the interview and emphasizing that it does not reflect your usual work environment.
A valuable aspect to highlight in the follow-up email is your positive interaction with the company through a recently won company-wide contest. By mentioning this accomplishment, you can establish a connection with the interviewers and showcase your sense of humor and positive impression. This can help create a lasting impression that extends beyond the distractions and challenges faced during the interview.
Ultimately, deciding whether or not to send a follow-up email depends on your judgment of the situation. Consider the overall tone of the interview, your rapport with the interviewers, and how you perceive your performance. If you believe it will help to address the disruptions and assure the interviewers of your capabilities, a follow-up email can be a valuable addition to your communication.
Importance of Acknowledging the Unusual Circumstances
Acknowledging the disruptions and challenges faced during the interview holds significant importance. This acknowledgment allows you to clarify that the chaos witnessed is not representative of your normal work environment. It reassures the interviewers that your ability to maintain professionalism and focus in a more typical setting remains intact. By affirming that the circumstances were extraordinary and not reflective of your usual work conditions, you alleviate concerns they may have about your work performance going forward.
Benefit of Being Known by the Interviewers
The fact that the interviewers already have some familiarity with you is an advantage in this situation. Previous interaction, especially through your participation and success in the company-wide contest, has established trust and credibility. This existing connection can serve as a basis for the interviewers to have a positive impression of you, despite the challenges faced during the video interview. Leveraging this familiarity can strengthen your candidacy for the role, highlighting your capabilities and professionalism beyond the unfortunate circumstances of that specific interview.
Handling Pet Disturbances During Interviews
Dealing with pet disturbances during remote interviews is a common challenge. Pets can create interruptions and distractions, making it difficult to manage both interview questions and pet care simultaneously. However, it’s important to differentiate between urgent pet emergencies and routine disturbances. In the case of routine interruptions, such as your dog vomiting, it is generally best to continue with the interview and address the issue later.
Addressing the Noise of Pet Vomit
Pet vomit during an interview can create an awkward situation. However, it’s crucial to remain composed and make a decision based on the severity of the situation. If you believe the vomiting noises can be heard on the call, it’s best to briefly address the issue to avoid uncomfortable silence. Apologize for the noise and offer a simple explanation, such as “I’m sorry, my dog has picked this moment to throw up. Please excuse that sound.” This acknowledgment allows the interviewers to understand the situation without dwelling on it, enabling you to continue the interview without undue distraction.
Tips for Future Interviews in Similar Situations
To ensure a smoother experience in future interviews where you may face similar circumstances, consider the following tips:
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Prioritize securing backup childcare: Whenever possible, make arrangements for backup childcare to mitigate the risk of interruptions during interviews.
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Plan interview times carefully: Schedule interviews at times when the likelihood of disruptions is minimal, such as when your child is napping or in daycare.
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Create a designated interview space: Establish an area in your home specifically for interviews. This space should be free from distractions and equipped with the necessary technology for remote video interviews.
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Inform interviewers about unusual circumstances: At the start of the interview, briefly mention any unexpected circumstances you may be dealing with that could potentially affect the interview. This upfront communication allows the interviewers to be understanding and accommodating.
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Maintain composure and focus: Despite disruptions, strive to remain composed and focused during the interview. Practice redirecting your attention and balancing your responsibilities while answering questions to the best of your ability.
Final Thoughts and Well Wishes
Dealing with a sick toddler and a vomiting dog during a video interview is undoubtedly challenging. It’s important to extend yourself some grace during this time. Despite the obstacles faced, your dedication and adaptability should be commended.
Moving forward, it’s essential to follow up with the interviewers to address the unusual circumstances and express your confidence in your fit for the role. Remember, the interviewers already have some knowledge of you, which can work in your favor. leverage this existing connection and emphasize your professionalism, capabilities, and positive impression.
As you navigate future interviews, take proactive steps to minimize potential disruptions. Plan interview times carefully, secure backup childcare when possible, and create a designated interview space. Communicate openly about any unusual circumstances at the start of the interview, and maintain composure and focus throughout.
Lastly, we wish you the best of luck in securing the desired role. Your efforts and adaptability during these challenging times deserve recognition, and we hope you find success moving forward. Stay confident, maintain your professionalism, and trust in your abilities to overcome any obstacles that come your way!
